Examinations at the Abbottabad University of Science and Technology were abruptly cancelled and the campus was temporarily shut down after protests erupted over the killing of a student leader earlier this week. The tragic incident triggered unrest among students, leading to demonstrations and disruption of academic activities.
The situation escalated quickly, forcing the university administration to suspend exams and prioritize campus safety.
Exams Halted Midway Due to Growing Unrest
According to university sources, examinations were already in progress when tensions intensified on campus. Examination papers had been distributed to students when the administration suddenly halted the exam process and collected the papers back.
Officials stated that the decision was taken to prevent further escalation and ensure the safety of students and staff as protests began gaining momentum.
The sudden cancellation created confusion among students, many of whom were caught off guard by the unexpected turn of events.
Killing of Student Leader Sparks Outrage
The protests were triggered by the killing of student leader Abdullah Khan, who was reportedly shot near the university’s main gate earlier in the week. The incident shocked the university community and quickly became a focal point for anger and grief among students.
Reports suggest that the violence erupted during a clash between rival student groups. In addition to the fatality, two other students were injured during the confrontation, further intensifying tensions on campus.
Students described the incident as deeply disturbing and demanded immediate action from authorities.
Students and Locals Join Protests
Following the incident, students were joined by local residents and relatives of the deceased in large-scale demonstrations. Protesters gathered on campus and surrounding areas, calling for justice and immediate arrests of those responsible for the shooting.
Chanting slogans and holding placards, demonstrators demanded accountability and transparency in the investigation. Many protesters expressed concerns about campus security and urged authorities to take stricter measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
The protests remained tense but largely organized, with participants emphasizing their demand for swift justice.
Allegations and Eyewitness Accounts
Protesters alleged that the deceased student had affiliations with Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI), although officials have not formally confirmed the political angle. The alleged affiliation added another layer of sensitivity to the situation, drawing broader public attention.
Eyewitnesses claimed that armed suspects fled the scene immediately after the shooting, creating panic among students present at the university gate. These accounts have intensified calls for a thorough investigation and quick arrests.
Authorities have yet to release an official statement detailing the exact circumstances surrounding the incident.
Political Figures Join Demonstrators
The protests gained further visibility when local political figure Uzair Sher Khan joined demonstrators. Addressing the crowd, he warned that the movement could expand if authorities failed to act swiftly.
He reportedly cautioned that protesters might block the Hazara Motorway if the suspects were not arrested promptly. This warning raised concerns about potential wider disruptions beyond the university.
The possibility of highway blockades highlighted the seriousness of the situation and the mounting pressure on law enforcement agencies.
University Administration Responds
In response to the unrest, the university administration announced the temporary closure of the campus and suspension of academic activities. Officials stated that the move was necessary to prevent further escalation and maintain order.
The administration also assured students and the public that it would fully cooperate with law enforcement authorities. University officials emphasized their commitment to ensuring justice and restoring normalcy as soon as possible.
Students were advised to remain updated through official announcements regarding the rescheduling of examinations and reopening of the campus.
Law Enforcement and Investigation
Authorities have reportedly launched an investigation into the incident, with efforts underway to identify and apprehend those responsible. Law enforcement agencies are gathering evidence, including eyewitness statements and available surveillance footage.
However, protesters have expressed concerns about delays and have urged authorities to act swiftly. Many students emphasized that timely justice would be crucial in restoring trust and calm within the university community.
Impact on Academic Activities
The cancellation of exams and campus closure have disrupted academic schedules, leaving many students uncertain about upcoming assessments. While the administration has not yet announced new exam dates, officials have assured that students will be informed once the situation stabilizes.
Education experts note that such incidents not only affect academic timelines but also leave a lasting emotional impact on students and faculty.
Conclusion
The tragic killing of a student leader at Abbottabad University has led to widespread protests, forcing the cancellation of exams and temporary campus closure. With students, locals, and political figures demanding swift justice, the incident has sparked serious concerns about campus security and law enforcement response.
